There are absolutely problems on both sides of the issue for aboriginals. The government has done them a lot of wrong in the past and the reserve system is struggling to get a lot of the essential services it needs to properly set itself up for success. The education system on many of the reserves is completely outdated and really doesn't prepare aboriginals for life in Canadian Society.
On the flip side of that, Aboriginals are very very sensitive to changes to policies and programs within the government because of their history. They probably have the longest memories of anyone I know (people can literally breakdown in tears when they discuss things like residential schools). It might be something that has been abolished for close to 40 to 50!! years in some instances but it is still fresh in their minds as if it was yesterday.
There has been a lot of reaching out from private industry in particular, especially recently to help promote their own internal diversity and inclusion strategies. There are more jobs and opportunities for aboriginals than at any time in recent history. Part of the problem is though that a lot of people remain skeptical with overly perceived elements of racism which ultimately becomes a self fulfilling prophecy as a barrier to employment. One problem with the reserve system is that there are not a lot of opportunities on reserve - and it has been very difficult for people to leave their family.
I think that both sides still have some growing up to do - there is a great deal of racism and lack of trust on both sides - from my own experience, aboriginals are much less likely to trust me because of my ethnicity than someone who is aboriginal.
However, it may be harsh, but in some ways Aboriginals need to build a bridge and get over their own fears. The world isn't out to get them anymore.
|